Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

Vivian Rooke was born in Brisbane and enlisted aged 22 in September 1915. He stated that he lived in Caloundra . He embarked on the “Commonwealth” in March 1916 and entered France in July 1916.

Now fighting as part of the 2nd Division, the 25th Battalion took part in its first major battle at Pozieres between 25 July and 7 August in the course of which it suffered 785 casualties. After a spell in a quieter sector of the front in Belgium, the 2nd Division came south in October to attack again in the Somme Valley. The 25th Battalion took part in two attacks to the east of Flers, both of which floundered in the mud.

Although it acted in a supporting role at the second battle of Bullecourt, the 25th Battalion did not carry out a major offensive role again until 20 September 1917, when it was part of the 2nd Division's first wave at the battle of Menin Road in Belgium. Victory here was followed up with the capture of Broodseinde Ridge on 4 October.

For his bravery in this battle Vivian was recommended for the Italian Al Valore Militare in Bronze. His citation reads:

On Broodseinde Ridge on October 5 this soldier was the first to volunteer for construction of wire entanglements on plateau, in advance of our lines, and under direct enemy observation. Orders were received at midday for work to be completed by 2pm. Under the personal direction of Lieut Fergusson, and the undersigned, Private Rooke took the party in hand. Enemy directed H.E. shrapnel fire on party, but the work was completed and report sent in to that effect by 1pm. Undoubtedly by his example and energy, Private Rooke contributed considerably to the successful completion of the work and was recommended by Lieut Fergusson for the MM. (Signed) W S Connor Capt O C Coy – Btn”

The citation was later published in local papers and his father in Caloundra sought confirmation from the Defence Force as to when the actual medal would  be received by his son – and he was politely told that it would happen when it happened.

The 25th reprised its role from Menin Road, in what was its last large-scale offensive action for the year.

1918 was an exhausting year for the 25th Battalion. It fought to turn back the German spring offensive in April, and then participated in battles at Morlancourt, Hamel, Amiens and along the Somme Valley as the German Army was pushed ever closer to defeat. These actions sapped the strength of the AIF, already terribly weak due to earlier casualties and lack of reinforcements. In September, the 25th was one of several battalions ordered to disband to reinforce others. Its troops mutinied, winning the Battalion a temporary reprieve.

The battalion went into the line one last time on 3 October 1918 and took part in a successful attack to break through the German defences around Beaurevoir. It was disbanded nine days later. Vivian was discharged in August 1919.